ILLINOIS STATE LIBRARY
Literacy Month
Each year in Illinois, Secretary of State Jesse White recognizes September as Literacy Month. It is a time when we are urged to renew our efforts to increase literacy levels for Illinois adults and families. Internationally, since 1967 UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) has designated September 8 as International Literacy Day.
Below, the State Library's Literacy Office offers suggestions for celebrating Literacy Month with your family and in your community.
In your Home
- Renew a commitment to go with your children to the library regularly.
- Make sure your children "catch" you reading - you're their role model.
- Discuss with children that reading is the key to many of life's successes.
In your Community
- Take time to thank those people who support reading - teachers, librarians, employers, churches, government officials.
- Act now and get your schools to plan for Family Reading Night. Family Reading Night is always the third Thursday in November.
- If you're not already helping the literacy program in your community in some way, call the Adult Literacy Hotline at 800−321−9511. They can refer you to the program(s) in your community who need your support.
- Talk with your local radio station(s) and ask them to play public service announcements that will help recruit volunteers and tell students about programs to help them.